Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant kitchens of the Middle East! Our Spicy Fish with Dried Lime recipe is not just a meal, it's a sensory experience that combines bold spices, tender fish, and the unique tangy punch of dried limes. In just 25 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-worthy dish that will impress your family and friends, proving that gourmet cooking can be both simple and spectacular.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 fish fillets (such as tilapia or cod)
- 2 dried limes
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 fish fillets (tilapia or cod), 2 dried limes, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, salt and pepper, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the fish.
- In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. This will be your spice mixture.
- Take the dried limes and gently crush them to release their flavor. You can do this using a mortar and pestle or by placing them in a zip-lock bag and gently pounding them with a rolling pin.
- In a large mixing bowl, place the fish fillets and drizzle with olive oil. Rub the oil into the fish to ensure even coating.
- Sprinkle the spice mixture over the fish fillets, making sure to coat both sides evenly. Add the crushed dried lime and rub it into the fish for added flavor.
- Place the seasoned fish fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased with olive oil.
- Bake the fish in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- While the fish is baking, you can prepare a side dish or salad to accompany your meal, such as a simple cucumber and tomato salad or steamed rice.
- Once the fish is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
- Serve the spicy fish hot, garnished with additional crushed dried lime if desired, alongside your chosen side dish.
Tips
- Choose the right fish: While tilapia and cod work wonderfully, opt for fresh, firm white fish fillets that can hold up to the robust spices.
- Dried lime technique: When crushing dried limes, be gentle. You want to release their intense, citrusy flavor without turning them into powder.
- Spice balance: Adjust the chili powder to your heat preference. For a milder version, reduce to 1/2 teaspoon; for heat lovers, increase to 1 1/2 teaspoons.
- Even coating matters: Use your hands to massage the olive oil and spices into the fish, ensuring every inch is flavorfully seasoned.
- Avoid overcooking: Fish cooks quickly. Check at 12 minutes and remove when it flakes easily with a fork to maintain moisture.
- Serving suggestion: Pair with a cooling yogurt sauce or a fresh herb salad to complement the dish's spiciness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 151kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 60mg
